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Employers Say Thanks, but Is It Often Enough?—Employment Insights from Express

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Express Employment Professionals’ America Employed and Canada Employed series explore the state of employment in North America, including everything from hiring expectations and HR challenges to job seekers’ optimism and shrinking the skills gap. Learn about the latest insights uncovered in a recent Express Employment Professionals-Harris Poll survey. 

Nearly all hiring managers believe recognizing employees for their work is important, but almost half admit their company doesn’t have the resources to manage recognition effectively. A Forbes article notes recognition can lead to a 366% increase in fulfillment and 208% increase in community, creating a culture of gratitude.

Recognition Is Strategic Year-Round for U.S. Hiring Managers

Eighty-nine percent of employers agree recognition is a competitive advantage, and 93% say it significantly boosts loyalty. When recognition happens, the benefits impact the organization. Employers say:

  • Employees feel valued – 64%
  • Moral rises – 60%
  • Productivity improves – 57%
  • Engagement grows – 52%
  • Loyalty strengthens – 51%
Infographic titled “Benefits of U.S. Workplace Recognition” showing five statistics with thumbs-up icons: 64% Employees Feel Valued, 60% Morale Rises, 57% Productivity Improves, 52% Engagement Grows, and 51% Loyalty Strengthens. On the right, an illustrated person jumps holding a gold trophy. Bottom text cites The Harris Poll survey for Express Employment Professionals. Logo reads “America Employed.”

How Canadian Companies Give Thanks

Seventy-six per cent of employers say recognition is frequent and ongoing, often through private praise from managers (46%), public praise in meetings (36%), on-the-spot awards like extra time off (35%), and shoutouts in company communications (33%). But for many employees, these gestures aren’t common. Among job seekers:

  • Only 49% say recognition is regular while 51% say it’s reserved only for big wins.
  • Monthly recognition is uncommon—private praise (21%), public praise (20%), shoutouts (16%).
  • More than 1 in 10 say recognition only happens once a year or even less.
    Infographic titled “Benefits of Canadian Workplace Recognition” listing five statistics with thumbs-up icons: 63% Employees Feel Valued, 60% Morale Rises, 57% Productivity Improves, 52% Engagement Grows, and 50% Loyalty Strengthens. On the right, an illustrated person jumps holding a gold trophy. Bottom text cites The Harris Poll survey for Express Employment Professionals. Logo reads “Canada Employed.”

    Nevertheless, most employed job seekers (63%) say they currently feel or previously felt appropriately recognized for their contributions at work.

    “Recognition is a simple act with a powerful impact,” said Bob Funk Jr., CEO, President, and Chairman of Express Employment International. “It’s the everyday expression of gratitude that builds trust and strengthens teams. When companies make recognition a priority, they create an environment where employees feel valued, morale improves, and productivity rises. In a season focused on giving thanks, it’s a reminder that appreciation should be part of every day, not just once a year.”

    Read more about the latest employment insights in America Employed at ExpressPros.com and Canada Employed at ExpressPros.ca. 

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